Lewis Hamilton said he kept options for the future open but had a better time with his family in the winter and is ready for the 2022 season.
The Brit then decided to disappear from social media. The removal generated rumors about a possible retirement caused by the events of the final stage of last season.
Speaking about his time out of the public eye, the 37-year-old seven-time champion admitted that he had thought about his future and what he would like to do, but came to the conclusion that he had committed to the German team and that he still loved the sport.
“Of course, I think when you’re my age, at the end of any season, you’re obviously thinking about your future.” Hamilton said.
“You think about what the next steps are, what the right steps are, and what will bring you happiness. So I always evaluate my options.
“But I made a commitment to my team at the beginning of the season and, at the end of the day, I love what I do. I love being part of this team. I love working with them and, as I’ve said several times, we work towards a common goal.” Hamilton added.
Lewis revealed that he had one of the best vacations of his career and that he knew it was not time to stop.
“I feel in my prime. So why should I leave? There are many ways for you to refocus and stabilise, and I would say this [winter] was one of the best I’ve ever experienced. I feel more refreshed than ever.” Hamilton said.
“It was more about being present, living in the moment and creating memories. I know that sometimes in life we are so focused and stuck on some things like work that we forget to do those things.
“It was a good time just resting and reminiscing. It was the best period I’ve ever had with my family.” he added.
Hamilton on this Wednesday returns to the track for the final test period with the W13 at Sakhir. Based on the calendar, the 2022 Formula 1 season starts on March 20, in Bahrain.
